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World: One Death Reported From Clashes At G-7


Genoa, 20 July 2001 (RFE/RL) -- Italian TV reports one demonstrator has died and another has been gravely injured today in protests against the G-7 and Russia summit in Genoa. The cause of the reported death of a Spanish demonstrator is not yet known. The state television channel RAI-1 has reported dozens of protestors and some reporters suffering injuries in clashes with police.

In the ongoing protests, demonstrators have thrown cobblestones at police lines while others have vandalized a bank. Police have responded with teargas, baton charges, and dozens of arrests.

The G-7 leaders discussed the weak condition of the world's economy before being joined by Russian President Valdimir Putin later in the day.

Prior to Putin's arrival, a German spokesman told reporters that the Group of Seven leaders view the outlook for the world economy positively. A Japanese spokesman said the leaders saw "significant room for a strong recovery."

Some protesters managed to smash through one security gate leading to the palace (Palazzo Ducale) where the summit is taking place, but police drove them back.

Further Talks are expected to focus on issues ranging from the conflicts in Macedonia and the Middle East to U.S. missile defense plans.

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